Art & Life with Erika Parker Rogers

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Parker Rogers.

Erika, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I am a full-time artist and Illustrator that calls North Augusta, SC home. I’ve been creating art as long as I can remember, I started selling portrait commissions when I was only 16 years old. Art has always had a place in my life, even when I thought I was taking a different path. I entered the workforce to pursue real estate/property management for a very long time, and I found myself directing the creative vision for each place I worked from logos, photography, videography, marketing materials, even property layouts, and aesthetics. I always found a way to use my gifts and eventually found my way back to it as a full-time gig.

Can you give our readers some background on your art?
From the beginning, my main focus was portraiture. I am able to take a blank piece of paper and create something that someone can cherish forever. It’s so gratifying to know that my artwork can bring such joy and sometimes it even brings on the tears. I’ve worked on a little bit of everything, but most often my commissions are child and pet portraits. I get quite a bit of memorial portraits as well. It’s a beautiful way to capture someone’s character. I’ve sold hundreds of commissions over the years, but I’ve always felt a desire to illustrate books. I am fascinated by the freedom and imagination it takes to bring words to life. In 2018, I had the pleasure of illustrating a few books which is completely new to me and so exciting. I’m currently focusing on growing my illustration portfolio and working on an art series for print. Lots to look forward to and so excited to see where things go in the years to come.

What responsibility, if any, do you think artists have to use their art to help alleviate problems faced by others? Has your art been affected by issues you’ve concerned about?
My goal is simply to create pieces that bring joy. Now more than ever I think that’s the most important thing anyone can do. Just bring a bit of joy. Life is tough sometimes, and I find real peace in creating something from nothing. Creating art and spending time outdoors makes me feel most centered. It’s important to get out in nature more often and reconnect with what life’s really about.

What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I participate in art exhibitions; often, I always update social media with my current displays. I also post current works in progress and recently completed pieces on my social media. Feel free to follow me on IG at ErikaParkerRogersArt to keep up with my latest work. You can find my art on Etsy and purchase custom pieces and prints online at www.etsy.com/shop/ErikaParkerRogersArt

Contact Info:

• Website: www.etsy.com/shop/ErikaParkerRogersArt
• Email: eprogersart@gmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/erikaparkerrogersart/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/erikaparkerrogers/

Image Credit:
Erika Rogers

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